What do you think?
Rate this book
The President's Lawyer
A high-stakes legal thriller that is perfect for fans of John Grisham and Scott Turow following a Washington, DC, litigator who is hired to defend his best friend, the former President of the United States, against a murder charge
After a long career as one of DC’s most powerful litigators, Rob Jacobson is faced with the case of a lifetime: the former President of the United States—his childhood best friend—has been accused of murdering his mistress.
Rob knows he’s the only one who can prove his friend’s innocence, but he is soon overwhelmed as he attempts to devise a strategy to defend an authoritative man with a taste for infidelity, serious anger issues, and unconventional sexual appetites. As the high-profile case unfurls, the troubled, intertwining pasts of the two men complicate Rob’s efforts and soon, doubts begin to grow in his head. Could his oldest friend truly be capable of murder or is something even darker at play?
After a long career as one of DC’s most powerful litigators, Rob Jacobson is faced with the case of a lifetime: the former President of the United States—his childhood best friend—has been accused of murdering his mistress.
Rob knows he’s the only one who can prove his friend’s innocence, but he is soon overwhelmed as he attempts to devise a strategy to defend an authoritative man with a taste for infidelity, serious anger issues, and unconventional sexual appetites. As the high-profile case unfurls, the troubled, intertwining pasts of the two men complicate Rob’s efforts and soon, doubts begin to grow in his head. Could his oldest friend truly be capable of murder or is something even darker at play?
320 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication October 8, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
September 29, 2024
I guess you can’t blame the guy?
When Rob Jacobson, one of DC’s most powerful litigators, is asked to defend the former President of the United States and his childhood best friend-accused of murdering his mistress-he knows it’s the case of a lifetime. He has to take the case!
After all, their friendship has already survived Jack Cutler marrying Rob’s first love, Jess-and a few other nasty things that he has done along the way…
Jack has a habit of taking what isn’t his.
But, how do you defend a man who was clearly involved with the Victim and would prefer to not testify about his unconventional sexual preferences? The other defenses that Rob and his colleague, Jane Cashman could offer up, are definitely not very palatable either.
And, there lies the dilemma. Or, at least one of them.
The first 25% gives you some background information on their friendship, but at the halfway mark we are already in TRIAL-my favorite part of ANY legal thriller-the strategies, the pivots that must be made on the fly, and the surprises!
Including the shocking ending!
The story mostly unfolds in the first person POV of Rob, with a few chapters sharing the conversations between therapist and client.
This is a riveting DEBUT novel by an acclaimed trial and appellate litigator who has argued 20 cases in the United States Supreme Court, and 60 others in the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals, and his expertise shows. I especially enjoyed learning about jury selection. Yikes.
This case seems to take place in the not so distant future, as our two most recent Presidents are mentioned and for authenticity, you will see some parallels made between the story and the current Political environment. But, don’t worry-the mention of anything Political is minimal, and the unconventional sexual acts are only minimally described as well.
In fact, the only TW is a brief mention of a dog killed.
I read the entire book in one day.
This book definitely deserves more attention than it is getting! Add it to your TBR today if you enjoy legal thrillers!
EXPECTED PUBLICATION DATE: October 8, 2024
Thank You to Atria for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
When Rob Jacobson, one of DC’s most powerful litigators, is asked to defend the former President of the United States and his childhood best friend-accused of murdering his mistress-he knows it’s the case of a lifetime. He has to take the case!
After all, their friendship has already survived Jack Cutler marrying Rob’s first love, Jess-and a few other nasty things that he has done along the way…
Jack has a habit of taking what isn’t his.
But, how do you defend a man who was clearly involved with the Victim and would prefer to not testify about his unconventional sexual preferences? The other defenses that Rob and his colleague, Jane Cashman could offer up, are definitely not very palatable either.
And, there lies the dilemma. Or, at least one of them.
The first 25% gives you some background information on their friendship, but at the halfway mark we are already in TRIAL-my favorite part of ANY legal thriller-the strategies, the pivots that must be made on the fly, and the surprises!
Including the shocking ending!
The story mostly unfolds in the first person POV of Rob, with a few chapters sharing the conversations between therapist and client.
This is a riveting DEBUT novel by an acclaimed trial and appellate litigator who has argued 20 cases in the United States Supreme Court, and 60 others in the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals, and his expertise shows. I especially enjoyed learning about jury selection. Yikes.
This case seems to take place in the not so distant future, as our two most recent Presidents are mentioned and for authenticity, you will see some parallels made between the story and the current Political environment. But, don’t worry-the mention of anything Political is minimal, and the unconventional sexual acts are only minimally described as well.
In fact, the only TW is a brief mention of a dog killed.
I read the entire book in one day.
This book definitely deserves more attention than it is getting! Add it to your TBR today if you enjoy legal thrillers!
EXPECTED PUBLICATION DATE: October 8, 2024
Thank You to Atria for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
July 28, 2024
Well, what hat have we got here!?
Just one of the best legal thrillers I’ve read in a very long time!🙌
Love a superb legal thriller? With an almost endless amount of edge-of-your seat courtroom action? Packed full of shocking surprises tossed in?
The verdict is in…this is the book for you!
I almost passed up this book because I was expecting it to have a strong political edge, and right about now I’ve had enough of all things politics.
But no worries! Our defendant may be an ex-president but that’s about all the politics this gem serves up! The author keeps the focus strictly on the trial.
Jack and Robbie have been friends since childhood. Jack went on to become the President of the United States while Robbie has remained his loyal friend practicing as a successful criminal lawyer.
But when Jack is accused and subsequently arrested for murder, it’s up to Robbie to defend him and prove Jack's innocence in the trial of the century!
You may think you know how this trial is going to end! HA! Not a chance!
I literally gasped! Absolute mind-blowing ending!
The author is a highly experienced trial attorney and it’s all on display in his writing. I was shocked to see this was a debut. I truly hope he’s currently working on his next book, as I will be the first in line!
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books
Just one of the best legal thrillers I’ve read in a very long time!🙌
Love a superb legal thriller? With an almost endless amount of edge-of-your seat courtroom action? Packed full of shocking surprises tossed in?
The verdict is in…this is the book for you!
I almost passed up this book because I was expecting it to have a strong political edge, and right about now I’ve had enough of all things politics.
But no worries! Our defendant may be an ex-president but that’s about all the politics this gem serves up! The author keeps the focus strictly on the trial.
Jack and Robbie have been friends since childhood. Jack went on to become the President of the United States while Robbie has remained his loyal friend practicing as a successful criminal lawyer.
But when Jack is accused and subsequently arrested for murder, it’s up to Robbie to defend him and prove Jack's innocence in the trial of the century!
You may think you know how this trial is going to end! HA! Not a chance!
I literally gasped! Absolute mind-blowing ending!
The author is a highly experienced trial attorney and it’s all on display in his writing. I was shocked to see this was a debut. I truly hope he’s currently working on his next book, as I will be the first in line!
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books
September 27, 2024
First of all I'd like to begin this review with a shout out to my friend, Kaceey, whose review convinced me that I needed to read this. You were right!!!
I'm not going to say too much because I want future readers to discover the secrets all on their own. What I will say is that the story revolves around a former president being accused of killing his mistress. He then hires his childhood best friend, Rob, a formidable DC lawyer, to take his case.
This book is the epitome of a *juicy* read. Truly. I couldn't get enough. So many secrets get spilled that I probably looked like a slack jawed fool the entire time I was reading this.
As far as the courtroom scenes. Damn, I felt like I was sitting front and center in that courtroom. Not surprised since Lawrence S. Robbins is an acclaimed trial and appellate litigator who has famously argued twenty cases in the United States Supreme Court. It shows. This man knows his way around the courtroom and it made for an absolutely riveting and scintillating read.
The very best part was the gasp worthy ending that I never once suspected. I was so surprised that when I turned that final page it was with a smile of satisfaction. This was absolutely sensational from start to finish. Highest recommendation. 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for my complimentary copy.
I'm not going to say too much because I want future readers to discover the secrets all on their own. What I will say is that the story revolves around a former president being accused of killing his mistress. He then hires his childhood best friend, Rob, a formidable DC lawyer, to take his case.
This book is the epitome of a *juicy* read. Truly. I couldn't get enough. So many secrets get spilled that I probably looked like a slack jawed fool the entire time I was reading this.
As far as the courtroom scenes. Damn, I felt like I was sitting front and center in that courtroom. Not surprised since Lawrence S. Robbins is an acclaimed trial and appellate litigator who has famously argued twenty cases in the United States Supreme Court. It shows. This man knows his way around the courtroom and it made for an absolutely riveting and scintillating read.
The very best part was the gasp worthy ending that I never once suspected. I was so surprised that when I turned that final page it was with a smile of satisfaction. This was absolutely sensational from start to finish. Highest recommendation. 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for my complimentary copy.
April 10, 2024
This review was first posted on Mystery & Suspense Magazine. Check it out for features, interviews, and reviews. https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/
One-term former Democratic president Jack Cutler has been arrested for murder.
The victim is 32-year-old Amanda Harper - a junior lawyer who worked in Cutler's White House Counsel's Office.
Harper's body was found in Rock Creek Park, strangled, with rope burns on her wrists and ankles. Near the victim was a small, locked briefcase, with a dinner knife from the White House 'James Monroe Collection' wedged into the opening.
Cutler, who's married to Jess Friedland Cutler, and has two teenage children named Gretchen and Harlan, has a reputation for philandering.
And not JUST philandering. Jack is rumored to like the rough stuff, including choking and hitting women during sex.
Cutler knows he's in big trouble, so he calls the best criminal defense lawyer he knows, his lifelong friend Robbie Jacobsen.
Jack, who knows Robbie was once in love with Amanda himself, tells the lawyer, "There's no easy way to say this - Amanda and I, we started an affair." Robbie is hesitant to represent Jack, but the former president insists he had nothing to do with Amanda's death, and Robbie agrees to defend him.
As Robbie prepares for trial, there are flashbacks that reveal both he and Jack had difficult fathers. Robbie recalls an occasion in high school, when he was invited to dinner at Jack's house.
Jack's father Sherm, a hedge fund CEO who was constantly in the business pages, was berating Jack for getting a B plus on an AP American History exam. Sherm shouted, "B plus? You got a B plus? I own bonds with a better rating than that, you dumb f***. " Sherm went on shouting and haranguing until Jack stood up and confronted his father, with a dinner knife clutched in his fist.
As for Robbie, he thinks both his parents were insane.
Robbie's mother Evie suffered from severe depression and his father Nathan had anger issues. When Robbie or his brother Evan got out of line, Nathan would throw Evie's high-heeled shoe end over end, or beat the offender with a studded utility belt that had a large American flag buckle in the front.
Robbie remembers the imprint lasting for hours, even days. This went on until Nathan was fatally assaulted on his way home from work one evening.
After graduating from college, Jack went into politics.....
.....and Robbie studied law.
Jack rose to the presidency and Robbie became a preeminent Washington, D.C. defense lawyer with a knack for representing his clients. This comes in handy when Robbie defends the former president, because there's a mountain of evidence against Jack, including DNA, hair, phone records, the James Monroe knife, and more.
Author Lawrence Robbins is an experienced attorney who understands how lawyers work and what it's like to try cases in Washington, D.C. courthouses. Thus the novel's courtroom scenes feel very authentic, with jury selection, questioning witnesses, cross-examining witnesses, legal maneuvering, and so on.
The alert reader might detect hints about the denouement of the story, but there will still be surprises at the end. This is a devious mystery that will appeal to fans of legal thrillers.
Thanks to Netgalley, Lawrence Robbins, and Atria Books for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
July 25, 2024
It’s been a week and I’m still thinking about the ending of The President’s Lawyer. A former lawyer—and the former president’s mistress—is found dead in Rock Creek Park. The former president is arrested for her murder and asks his best friend—lawyer Rob Jacobson—to represent him. What ensues is a high-stakes trial heavy on kink, twists, and depravity.
The President’s Lawyer—by Lawrence Robbins—is written by a man who knows his way around a courtroom. The first half introduces the characters and their backstory. While interesting, they aren’t the best humanity has to offer. Once in the courtroom, I couldn’t put it down despite the uncomfortable subject matter.
Narrated mostly by Jacobson, interspersed with chapters where the narrator is unknown. It’s a clever move that makes you second-guess your assumptions. And that ending…lord.
Thank you Atria Books for gifting me an advanced copy of The President’s Lawyer via NetGalley.
The President’s Lawyer—by Lawrence Robbins—is written by a man who knows his way around a courtroom. The first half introduces the characters and their backstory. While interesting, they aren’t the best humanity has to offer. Once in the courtroom, I couldn’t put it down despite the uncomfortable subject matter.
Narrated mostly by Jacobson, interspersed with chapters where the narrator is unknown. It’s a clever move that makes you second-guess your assumptions. And that ending…lord.
Thank you Atria Books for gifting me an advanced copy of The President’s Lawyer via NetGalley.
August 14, 2024
I love a good legal thriller and this one was top notch! Loved it! I was pulled into the story immediately and honestly the whole way through. It's a quick, entertaining, suspenseful read with quite a few twists that I didn't predict. The courtroom scenes are filled with drama and the ending totally caught me off guard! Really great book!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley for sending me an eARC.
I first read the description of this book and it said that it’s perfect for John Grisham fans and that’s what sold me to read this book.
This book was excellent and I had a great time reading it despite the fact that I figured out who the real killer was in 18% of this book. This book was a real page turner and the courtroom drama and background drama was really fun.
Excellent book.
I first read the description of this book and it said that it’s perfect for John Grisham fans and that’s what sold me to read this book.
This book was excellent and I had a great time reading it despite the fact that I figured out who the real killer was in 18% of this book. This book was a real page turner and the courtroom drama and background drama was really fun.
Excellent book.
September 3, 2024
FULL REVIEW WILL BE ON OCTOBER 9.
What an amazing debut - you will not be able to put this book down.
It is well written and will knock you right out of the jury box. :)
Courtroom drama at its best.
Don't miss it.
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
What an amazing debut - you will not be able to put this book down.
It is well written and will knock you right out of the jury box. :)
Courtroom drama at its best.
Don't miss it.
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 6, 2024
Meet Rob Jacobson, one of DC’s most powerful litigators, who is is asked by his lifelong best friend, the former President of the U.S., to defend him when he accused of murdering his is mistress. Can his oldest friend truly be capable of murder??
The author is an experienced attorney and the legal strategies and courtroom parts of The President's Lawyer felt mostly authentic. The pace was nice and I really liked some of the characters. Talk about a surprising twist. I did NOT see that coming!!
Like the author's son, Noah Robbins says, "If you’re looking for a high-octane legal thriller page-turner with suspense, twists, and courtroom intrigue, The President's Lawyer is for you!"
It may have been a little too different and less realistic from the books I normally read. I liked it but I didn't love it.
Many thanks to both #AtriaBooks and #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of #ThePresidentsLawyer. The expected publication date is October 8, 2024.
The author is an experienced attorney and the legal strategies and courtroom parts of The President's Lawyer felt mostly authentic. The pace was nice and I really liked some of the characters. Talk about a surprising twist. I did NOT see that coming!!
Like the author's son, Noah Robbins says, "If you’re looking for a high-octane legal thriller page-turner with suspense, twists, and courtroom intrigue, The President's Lawyer is for you!"
It may have been a little too different and less realistic from the books I normally read. I liked it but I didn't love it.
Many thanks to both #AtriaBooks and #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of #ThePresidentsLawyer. The expected publication date is October 8, 2024.
April 30, 2024
I'd like to thank the author, Atria books, and Goodreads foe sending me this book in exchange for a honest review. I have to say that this is probably one of the best legal thrillers I have read in a long time. This book was a fairly quick read and had plenty of twists and turns. The ending was mind blowing.
March 24, 2024
This debut legal thriller will have you flipping pages and missing bedtime. This has long been my favorite genre and it didn’t disappoint. You can immediately tell the author has both the background and experience in the legal system. The first of the book is a slow build, stick with it, you won’t be disappointed. The story was easy to read with good descriptions and not overly complicated by legalese. Being set in Washington, DC there is a heavy presence of gossip, rumors, media attention and politics. The protagonist of the plot is defense attorney Robbie. His character is developed beginning far back in his teenage years when the friendship with the future President of the United States began. The heart of the case for me was predicated on that relationship. Both men loved the same women which resulted in a clear dominant figure. The trust Robbie has in his longtime friend will be tested when Jack (former president) Is charged with murdering his lover. Jack’s wife, Jess, plays a significant role in not only the case but in their history. There are sordid affairs, jilted lovers, lies and suspects at every turn, the resolution will have you gasping. I hope there will be many more to come by this talented author.
NetGalley provided an advanced uncorrected reader’s copy of “The President’s Lawyer” by Lawrence S. Robbins, Simon & Schuster, Atria Books, anticipated publication is 10/08/2024. The thoughts expressed here are always my own honest personal opinions given voluntarily without compensation.
NetGalley provided an advanced uncorrected reader’s copy of “The President’s Lawyer” by Lawrence S. Robbins, Simon & Schuster, Atria Books, anticipated publication is 10/08/2024. The thoughts expressed here are always my own honest personal opinions given voluntarily without compensation.
October 3, 2024
This was such a fast paced read! I read this one super quickly, I couldn’t put it down.
The former president is being charged with the murder of his mistress, so he hires the one person he can count on to defend him; his best friend. Rob is used to defending the guilty, but he’s unsure what to believe when it comes to the former president. Has his lifelong friend committed this horrendous crime? Or is he being falsely accused?
The mystery was very intriguing and held my interest.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy
The former president is being charged with the murder of his mistress, so he hires the one person he can count on to defend him; his best friend. Rob is used to defending the guilty, but he’s unsure what to believe when it comes to the former president. Has his lifelong friend committed this horrendous crime? Or is he being falsely accused?
The mystery was very intriguing and held my interest.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy
March 31, 2024
Oh wow, super page turner. This book is so timely in so many ways, I could feel the author winking at me. Robbie is asked to be the lawyer for his longtime best friend, the former president. The charge is murder. The question is, did the president murder his pregnant girlfriend?
Robbins takes us through a fascinating trial, but it is the injection of the back story of the best friends, Jack and Robbie, that made this such a complex and twisted story. This isn’t your ordinary legal drama, this is a compelling, complex novel that forces the reader to sift through the evidence, not only at the trial, but strewn though the book.
Robbins takes the genre of courtroom drama to a new level. I can’t wait to share this book and see which readers can figure this out! A truly enjoyable reading experience.
Thank you Netgalley for introducing me to this author. I can’t wait to continue reading his future books, especially if they are as good as this one.
Robbins takes us through a fascinating trial, but it is the injection of the back story of the best friends, Jack and Robbie, that made this such a complex and twisted story. This isn’t your ordinary legal drama, this is a compelling, complex novel that forces the reader to sift through the evidence, not only at the trial, but strewn though the book.
Robbins takes the genre of courtroom drama to a new level. I can’t wait to share this book and see which readers can figure this out! A truly enjoyable reading experience.
Thank you Netgalley for introducing me to this author. I can’t wait to continue reading his future books, especially if they are as good as this one.
March 17, 2024
The President's Lawyer by Lawrence Robbins was advertised as a "high-stakes legal thriller." While the courtroom scenes were good, the story felt a bit off.
The story is about a Washington, DC, litigator who is hired to defend his best friend, the former President of the United States, against a murder charge. There were some parallels to today's political environment.
As I stated, there were good, dramatic courtroom scenes and a very good surprise ending.
I would probably recommend this book, and I would read more from this author.
#NetGalley @AtriaBooks
The story is about a Washington, DC, litigator who is hired to defend his best friend, the former President of the United States, against a murder charge. There were some parallels to today's political environment.
As I stated, there were good, dramatic courtroom scenes and a very good surprise ending.
I would probably recommend this book, and I would read more from this author.
#NetGalley @AtriaBooks
April 23, 2024
This is one of the books where you can tell that, although not nonfiction, the author is extremely passionate and knowledgeable about what they’re writing about.
This was an excellent legal thriller. The addition of the therapist chapters added an additional layer of intrigue that I really enjoyed. I recommend this to any fans of legal thrillers!!
This was an excellent legal thriller. The addition of the therapist chapters added an additional layer of intrigue that I really enjoyed. I recommend this to any fans of legal thrillers!!
June 13, 2024
A former US. President is charged with murder in The President’s Lawyer. The aforementioned lawyer is Rob Jacobson, a childhood best friend and close confidant of the president, who’s accused of killing his mistress. The first part of the book is challenging to read, with bland, boilerplate dialogue and lots of tedious flashbacks that set up the rest of the story. Where the book shines, however, are the courtroom scenes, and the author’s bona fides as a prominent attorney are obvious, with compelling and realistic scenes that are totally engrossing. Although the overall plot is a bit implausible, the strength of the courtroom dramatics and a great ending are worth the wait and earned an extra star in the rating. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2024
The basic plot of The President’s Lawyer involves Rob Jacobson, a high-stakes Washington, D.C. litigator, being hired by his childhood best friend and the former President of the US, to defend him after being charged for the murder of his mistress.
It’s plot,while not filled with edge-of-your seat excitement, will hold your interest from beginning to end as you become engrossed in its interesting, complex courtroom scenes, and with the particularly well-developed, yet flawed characters that Lawrence Robbins has developed. Further, the ending of The President’s Lawyer, is one you’ll unlikely anticipate. In many ways, this debut novel by Robbin’s - himself an acclaimed litigator - will remind you of the early works of John Grisham, Scott Turow and Richard North Patterson.
Definitely worthy of your consideration.
It’s plot,while not filled with edge-of-your seat excitement, will hold your interest from beginning to end as you become engrossed in its interesting, complex courtroom scenes, and with the particularly well-developed, yet flawed characters that Lawrence Robbins has developed. Further, the ending of The President’s Lawyer, is one you’ll unlikely anticipate. In many ways, this debut novel by Robbin’s - himself an acclaimed litigator - will remind you of the early works of John Grisham, Scott Turow and Richard North Patterson.
Definitely worthy of your consideration.
March 22, 2024
A lawyer for the former President is found dead at a Rock Creek Park horse stable and the President is the leading suspect. He asks his long time friend to represent him and keep him from prison.
There is a lot going on in this book that seems implausible, It is and it isn't your typical legal thriller. Instead of focusing on the evidence and proving it wrong. Robbins goes into the back story of the characters lives. Which turns rather tawdry for an old prude as myself. If you are not into partner sharing its a little odd reading.
However Robbins somehow holds this all together and creates a pretty fast paged page turner. I really enjoyed the novel and look forward to more despite some unusual plotting holes. You will like it. I sure did.
There is a lot going on in this book that seems implausible, It is and it isn't your typical legal thriller. Instead of focusing on the evidence and proving it wrong. Robbins goes into the back story of the characters lives. Which turns rather tawdry for an old prude as myself. If you are not into partner sharing its a little odd reading.
However Robbins somehow holds this all together and creates a pretty fast paged page turner. I really enjoyed the novel and look forward to more despite some unusual plotting holes. You will like it. I sure did.
May 10, 2024
In the words of the Good Place “Holy Forking Shirtballs”
I need someone who wants to talk spoilers because my head is still spinning around the room and hasn’t connected back to my body yet.
In the genre of legal thrillers. This should be the bar to live up to. Robbin’s knocked it out of the park.
When accused of murder, Rob Jacobson is the only person Jack Cutler wants and trusts to be by his side to defend him. Robbie is the best litigator, Jack’s closest and oldest friend and Jack is … well Jack is a sneaky brownnoser with a hidden agenda. Iykyk. Jack has been known to keep a number of different women on the side outside of his marriage, and a less than publicly appropriate hobby after hours. Well maybe during hours too. Doesn’t seem Jack had many boundaries. When Jack’s most recent mistress ends up murdered, he is placed at the scene of the crime.
This one is messy. Part flashbacks and multiple POV, part trial scripting. This one grips you on the first page. I couldn’t put it down. And honestly the ending blew me away so much I have to go back and read the last few chapters again.
Don’t miss out on this.
5 ⭐️
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC can’t wait to put it on my shelf
I need someone who wants to talk spoilers because my head is still spinning around the room and hasn’t connected back to my body yet.
In the genre of legal thrillers. This should be the bar to live up to. Robbin’s knocked it out of the park.
When accused of murder, Rob Jacobson is the only person Jack Cutler wants and trusts to be by his side to defend him. Robbie is the best litigator, Jack’s closest and oldest friend and Jack is … well Jack is a sneaky brownnoser with a hidden agenda. Iykyk. Jack has been known to keep a number of different women on the side outside of his marriage, and a less than publicly appropriate hobby after hours. Well maybe during hours too. Doesn’t seem Jack had many boundaries. When Jack’s most recent mistress ends up murdered, he is placed at the scene of the crime.
This one is messy. Part flashbacks and multiple POV, part trial scripting. This one grips you on the first page. I couldn’t put it down. And honestly the ending blew me away so much I have to go back and read the last few chapters again.
Don’t miss out on this.
5 ⭐️
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC can’t wait to put it on my shelf
May 3, 2024
Pacing, flashbacks, a truly shock ending. A perfect legal fiction.
The courtroom scenes were so fun to read. Robbins broke down the legal terminology and proceedings in a way that was easy to digest, but did not come across as arrogant.
I love a good legal mystery, but I was admittedly skeptical about the premise of this book. ‘Sure, only he can defend the president,’ I thought. ‘Typical cliche.’
I could not have been further from the truth. At about the halfway point of the book, I came to form two theories. Both fun, but overused. I was grasping at every shred of evidence that I was building my case. The book was quickly winding down and I was worried about the ending being rushed.
It could not have been more perfect. I gasped out loud and had to sit up straight to absorb the story.
I cannot recommend this book enough.
Disclaimer: An ARC was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Atria Books.
The courtroom scenes were so fun to read. Robbins broke down the legal terminology and proceedings in a way that was easy to digest, but did not come across as arrogant.
I love a good legal mystery, but I was admittedly skeptical about the premise of this book. ‘Sure, only he can defend the president,’ I thought. ‘Typical cliche.’
I could not have been further from the truth. At about the halfway point of the book, I came to form two theories. Both fun, but overused. I was grasping at every shred of evidence that I was building my case. The book was quickly winding down and I was worried about the ending being rushed.
It could not have been more perfect. I gasped out loud and had to sit up straight to absorb the story.
I cannot recommend this book enough.
Disclaimer: An ARC was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Atria Books.
June 9, 2024
Firstly, a huge thank you to the publisher, Atria Books, and Goodreads for the advanced reader's copy of this book, The President's Lawyer, by Lawrence S. Robbins.
In the vein of other legal thrillers, The President's Lawyer sets up a crime - a murder possibly done by the former President of the US - and throughout the book, you learn how the crime actually took place. The protagonist is Robbie, the president's confidante, high school friend, and lawyer. As the reader meets the cast of characters from the president's wife, Jessica, to Robbie's son, you're trying to piece together who could possibly be at the center of the crime against a young woman.
There are many elements of the story that mirror things that have happened with presidents in real life, which is interesting. Perhaps it brings some reality to the situation. I think maybe a more novel situation would have brought more to the story, and something more unexpected.
I thought the writing was good, if a bit concise and plain. I didn't need a ton of world-building, but a little more description would have made the imagery a little more clear for me throughout the tale. I think the characters themselves could've been fleshed out a little bit more. I did appreciate the inclusion of mental health topics and family relationships. I did like the inclusion of the jury selection process. I thought that was really interesting, as well as the trial as it went on. I would have liked some more information in these chapters. They felt a little bare to me. There were also a few moments where you could tell the person who was writing it was of an older generation who perhaps isn't as aware of technology as a younger audience will be.
The cover is okay, but doesn't stand out a crazy amount to me, and I'm not sure that it would make me beeline for it if I was looking for a legal thriller. I do like when people who have experienced other careers try their hands at fiction, because they can bring a lot of unique insight that someone who is a career author may not have been able to experience in a first-hand way. Overall, I would say I liked the book. I thought it was a tad predictable and I could've used more character development. But for a first time novel from someone who hasn't spent their career writing novels, I thought it was a strong start.
In the vein of other legal thrillers, The President's Lawyer sets up a crime - a murder possibly done by the former President of the US - and throughout the book, you learn how the crime actually took place. The protagonist is Robbie, the president's confidante, high school friend, and lawyer. As the reader meets the cast of characters from the president's wife, Jessica, to Robbie's son, you're trying to piece together who could possibly be at the center of the crime against a young woman.
There are many elements of the story that mirror things that have happened with presidents in real life, which is interesting. Perhaps it brings some reality to the situation. I think maybe a more novel situation would have brought more to the story, and something more unexpected.
I thought the writing was good, if a bit concise and plain. I didn't need a ton of world-building, but a little more description would have made the imagery a little more clear for me throughout the tale. I think the characters themselves could've been fleshed out a little bit more. I did appreciate the inclusion of mental health topics and family relationships. I did like the inclusion of the jury selection process. I thought that was really interesting, as well as the trial as it went on. I would have liked some more information in these chapters. They felt a little bare to me. There were also a few moments where you could tell the person who was writing it was of an older generation who perhaps isn't as aware of technology as a younger audience will be.
The cover is okay, but doesn't stand out a crazy amount to me, and I'm not sure that it would make me beeline for it if I was looking for a legal thriller. I do like when people who have experienced other careers try their hands at fiction, because they can bring a lot of unique insight that someone who is a career author may not have been able to experience in a first-hand way. Overall, I would say I liked the book. I thought it was a tad predictable and I could've used more character development. But for a first time novel from someone who hasn't spent their career writing novels, I thought it was a strong start.
May 1, 2024
Lawrence Robbins's The President's lawyer reflects a gradual cultural shift in our expectations for former presidents. Our first modern over-sexed president was Bill Clinton. Donald Trump made him look like a pussy cat. What is it with former presidents and their sex drives? Jack Cutler stands accused of murdering his mistress Amanda Harper. Jack's best friend Rob Jacobson reluctantly agrees to defend him. The two men had a history going back to childhood. They had more than their share of family issues back then; current issues include sick children and Rob's own relationship with Amanda. Some of this could have led Jack to become a murderer. Most of the book covers the trial and was clearly written by an attorney. From the start, the case was treated as identifying the victim, targeting the former president as the killer, and then going straight to trial with a case based on circumstantial evidence. Rob and his co-counsel Jane Cashman work to build a defense for Jack despite his seeming willingness to go to prison to keep his very public private life private. Some good explanations for legal procedure and some interesting psychology. Expect surprises. The book is about both legal strategy and human behavior.
August 25, 2024
A Legal thriller
Attorney Rob Jacobson is asked by his lifelong best friend, the former President of the U.S., to defend him when he is accused of murdering his mistress. Typical of many powerful men, the president has anger issues, some unconventional sexual habits and can be an unpleasant man. As the high-profile case unfurls their past complicate Rob’s efforts and doubts begin to take roots in his head: could his friend be capable of murder?.....politic aside let the trial begin...
The thriller is mostly entertainment it starts at a snail pace and keeps pretty much that tempo till the end. We have intensive background on both the president and the defence attorney and through the story tid-bits of memories show up. By the end we pretty well know these two characters and what makes them tick.
I loved the court shenanigan the back and forth between the defence and the prosecutor was active and well-done, mostly amusing. Following the court proceedings there is a fair amount of edge-of- your seat action with a few surprises tossed in. Rob defends Jack and will prove his innocence in the trial of the century with all one’s might.
This story is written by a man familiar around a courtroom and knows how to pull his readers into the drama. Once in the courtroom I couldn’t put this book aside. The story is narrated mostly by Rob although by the end one unknown character share his voice setting doubts and second guessing who the killer may be..... Wow what a mind-blowing ending.....
This story is a quick read, entertaining and suspenseful.
Thank you Aria Books and Netgalley
Attorney Rob Jacobson is asked by his lifelong best friend, the former President of the U.S., to defend him when he is accused of murdering his mistress. Typical of many powerful men, the president has anger issues, some unconventional sexual habits and can be an unpleasant man. As the high-profile case unfurls their past complicate Rob’s efforts and doubts begin to take roots in his head: could his friend be capable of murder?.....politic aside let the trial begin...
The thriller is mostly entertainment it starts at a snail pace and keeps pretty much that tempo till the end. We have intensive background on both the president and the defence attorney and through the story tid-bits of memories show up. By the end we pretty well know these two characters and what makes them tick.
I loved the court shenanigan the back and forth between the defence and the prosecutor was active and well-done, mostly amusing. Following the court proceedings there is a fair amount of edge-of- your seat action with a few surprises tossed in. Rob defends Jack and will prove his innocence in the trial of the century with all one’s might.
This story is written by a man familiar around a courtroom and knows how to pull his readers into the drama. Once in the courtroom I couldn’t put this book aside. The story is narrated mostly by Rob although by the end one unknown character share his voice setting doubts and second guessing who the killer may be..... Wow what a mind-blowing ending.....
This story is a quick read, entertaining and suspenseful.
Thank you Aria Books and Netgalley
September 30, 2024
*Hardback
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
“He was born with bumpers that kept his bowling balls rolling down the middle of the lane, all the rest of us had to worry about staying out of the gutter.”
“You told me once before that the level abuse went way down after the assault. Why is that? Why? Because I killed the b@stard, obviously.”
Thanks to Atria for sending me a #gifted copy of this one. It wasn’t even on my radar but I’m so glad I checked it out. I also didn’t realize this was a debut novel. It was well crafted and written like a pro.
This book was a slower burn than I typically go for but I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. There was so much scandal and mess to unpack.
Oh and don’t even get me started about all of the unlikable characters. I mean that in only a complimentary way…promise. You know who I felt sorry for in this book?! Not a single person. I think as an author you have a real talent if you can create a world of terrible people and make your reader still enjoy the story. I also think it is very hard to find books with well defined and memorable characters when you have this big of a cast of characters. LR knocked it out of the park with this debut.
I can’t even get into the story for you because I think you should go in blind and I don’t want to spoil anything. Just know that I highly recommend it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
“He was born with bumpers that kept his bowling balls rolling down the middle of the lane, all the rest of us had to worry about staying out of the gutter.”
“You told me once before that the level abuse went way down after the assault. Why is that? Why? Because I killed the b@stard, obviously.”
Thanks to Atria for sending me a #gifted copy of this one. It wasn’t even on my radar but I’m so glad I checked it out. I also didn’t realize this was a debut novel. It was well crafted and written like a pro.
This book was a slower burn than I typically go for but I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. There was so much scandal and mess to unpack.
Oh and don’t even get me started about all of the unlikable characters. I mean that in only a complimentary way…promise. You know who I felt sorry for in this book?! Not a single person. I think as an author you have a real talent if you can create a world of terrible people and make your reader still enjoy the story. I also think it is very hard to find books with well defined and memorable characters when you have this big of a cast of characters. LR knocked it out of the park with this debut.
I can’t even get into the story for you because I think you should go in blind and I don’t want to spoil anything. Just know that I highly recommend it.
June 2, 2024
The President’s Lawyer is compelling and suspenseful. This book really came alive during the courtroom scenes. Coincidentally, I read this book during Trump’s trial and it gave me some insight into trial law and lawyer shenanigans.
When Jack Cutler, the former President of the United States, is accused of killing his mistress, his best friend, Rob Jacobson, steps in to defend him. But with all of Jack’s infidelities and untruthfulness with authorities, the task is bigger than Rob anticipated.
I’m a sucker for courtroom dramas, so this book really intrigued me. As the trial continued, it was like watching the sun come up, little by little things became clear. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy legal dramas or political mysteries. Thank you, NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC.
When Jack Cutler, the former President of the United States, is accused of killing his mistress, his best friend, Rob Jacobson, steps in to defend him. But with all of Jack’s infidelities and untruthfulness with authorities, the task is bigger than Rob anticipated.
I’m a sucker for courtroom dramas, so this book really intrigued me. As the trial continued, it was like watching the sun come up, little by little things became clear. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy legal dramas or political mysteries. Thank you, NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC.
July 6, 2024
I was very uncertain about the first half of the book but the court case throughout the second half was excellently done. The plot twist was incredible and redeemed the entire book—the first time I’ve been genuinely shocked at a mystery book’s plot twist. I’ve never gone back to reread the “hints” as much as I did after finishing this book
March 15, 2024
Great political thriller with a phenomenal twist that just says "WOW"!!!
Didn't see that coming!!
Rob is called in by his very close friend and former President to defend him against a murder charge. de4spite having been romantically involved with the deceased himself and against his better judgement, he takes the case on and the story takes off.
No looking back as you flip the pages to get to the next incredibly winding twist.
The characters are really well defined and the plot is scrupulously maintained in a forward direction with side stories that keep you
absolutely spinning as you try to keep up.
One curve after another makes for a dynamic and really , really good story.
Great job by Robbins with the absolute attention to every single detail making it an easy read despite the legal and political machinations.
Robbie is definitely a man of many talents.
Didn't see that coming!!
Rob is called in by his very close friend and former President to defend him against a murder charge. de4spite having been romantically involved with the deceased himself and against his better judgement, he takes the case on and the story takes off.
No looking back as you flip the pages to get to the next incredibly winding twist.
The characters are really well defined and the plot is scrupulously maintained in a forward direction with side stories that keep you
absolutely spinning as you try to keep up.
One curve after another makes for a dynamic and really , really good story.
Great job by Robbins with the absolute attention to every single detail making it an easy read despite the legal and political machinations.
Robbie is definitely a man of many talents.
March 20, 2024
The President's Lawyer is one of the most compelling reads I have encountered. While the book focuses on the death of a lawyer who at one time worked for the President of the United States, it also focuses on the likelihood, given the evidence, that the President committed that crime.
Much of the book focuses on the exciting criminal trial of the President and the interplay of those who knew him, loved him, hated him, represented him and prosecuted him. I confess that the book kept me guessing in its entirety. At times, I felt certain that I knew what the outcome would be and at other times, I recognized how little I knew.
Could not put the book down, enjoyed the characters, the story line and the many twists and turns.
I received an ARC for free and gave my honest opinion voluntarily.
Much of the book focuses on the exciting criminal trial of the President and the interplay of those who knew him, loved him, hated him, represented him and prosecuted him. I confess that the book kept me guessing in its entirety. At times, I felt certain that I knew what the outcome would be and at other times, I recognized how little I knew.
Could not put the book down, enjoyed the characters, the story line and the many twists and turns.
I received an ARC for free and gave my honest opinion voluntarily.
April 10, 2024
I love a good courtroom thriller and this book was a 5⭐️ read for me. This is the story of a former US president, Jack, being accused of the murder of his mistress, Amanda. Jack turns to his lifelong friend and attorney, Robbie, to represent him at his trial. Although there is circumstantial evidence surrounding the president, Robbie and his partner Jane, do an incredible job of casting doubt over the prosecutors evidence. But that leaves the question of who actually murdered Amanda. Was it the Presidents wife, Jess? Was it Robbie’s son? Or could it possibly be Robbie’s brother, Evan?
This book was a fast page turner that I didn’t want to put down. I thought a couple times I had figured out the twist, but it wasn’t until the last 20 pages that I realized what was happening. For me it was a unique premise and the suspense was palpable. I believe this is the author’s debut novel and I hope to read more from him in the future!
Thank you to the author and to Atria books for providing me an Advanced Readers Copy.
This book was a fast page turner that I didn’t want to put down. I thought a couple times I had figured out the twist, but it wasn’t until the last 20 pages that I realized what was happening. For me it was a unique premise and the suspense was palpable. I believe this is the author’s debut novel and I hope to read more from him in the future!
Thank you to the author and to Atria books for providing me an Advanced Readers Copy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews